Press Release

Full-digital amplifier family begins with 4x135W and 4x50W systems on chip, enabling a new generation of class-D car audio products

Geneva /
16 Oct 2012

STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications and the world’s leading supplier of automotive audio power amplifier chips 1, has revealed the industry’s first full-digital audio-amplifier system-on-chip family suitable for use in dash-mounted sound-system control panels in the car.

ST’s new audio amplifiers also enhance the audio performance of high-power boosters and integrate circuitry to allow continuous, undistorted playback in vehicles using stop-start engine technology, or in hybrid vehicles as the electrical traction drives and combustion engine switch between various operating modes.

As the first devices of their kind to feature an integrated digital input, the 4x135W FDA4100LV and the 4x50W FDA450LV require no signal conversion or filtering circuitry, saving pc-board space and component count. In addition, engineering challenges such as EMI reduction are addressed inside the chips. ST’s patented feedback loop saves the need for a large output filter, and also allows use in diverse OEM and aftermarket products by reducing dependence on speaker type. Patented features reduce electro-magnetic interference with the tuner and also simplify end-product certification to automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards CEI EN 55025 and ISO 11452-2 (2004).

ST has also indicated plans to expand its FDA full digital amplifier family in the future, starting with a 2-channel device early in 2013.

Major features:

4x135W maximum output power (FDA4100LV) or 4x50W (FDA450LV)

4Ω, 2Ω or 1Ω speaker driving capability

Unique digital audio input for automotive application

Input signal-to-noise ratio and dynamic range: 110dB / 108dB

Patented feedback loop design, saving cost and component count

Integrated step-up driver (FDA4100LV)

Tested for compliance with automotive EMI standards

I2C interface for digital control and diagnostics

Stop-start engine compatible

The FDA4100LV and FDA450LV are available in volume at a unit price of, $9.00 and $8.00, respectively, in quantities of 1,000 pieces. Alternative pricing options for higher order quantities will be available on request.

About STMicroelectronics ST is a global leader in the semiconductor market serving customers across the spectrum of sense and power technologies and multimedia convergence applications. From energy management and savings to trust and data security, from healthcare and wellness to smart consumer devices, in the home, car and office, at work and at play, ST is found everywhere microelectronics make a positive and innovative contribution to people's life. By getting more from technology to get more from life, ST stands for life.augmented.
In 2011, the Company’s net revenues were $9.73 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

1 According to independent market analysts IHS iSuppli, ST is the clear worldwide leader in automotive audio power amplifiers, with a market share of around 50%.